Courtney nodded. “I would be delighted, Your Grace.”
The rest of the guests followed, and Emma was relieved to see that she and Charlotte were seated at the opposite end of the table from the duke. The meal hadn’t even started yet, and she was already wondering how long she’d have to stay in the parlor after dinnerbefore she could make her escape to the seclusion of her bedchamber.
“This is my first house party, and I’m glad it’s with you,” Charlotte whispered.
“My mother has told me she has many activities planned.” Emma looked around the table. Half of the guests were her mother’s age. “Although I don’t know how much fun they’ll be. I can’t see many of the matrons opting for the more strenuous outdoor activities.”
“Whatever’s planned, I'm sure we'll have a great time,” Charlotte said.
Emma looked down the table at the duke. He was chatting amicably with Edgerton and Courtney, and she couldn't help but admire his handsome profile. Then, as if he sensed her regard, Richmond turned and locked eyes with her. Emma quickly looked away and began chatting with the vicar's eldest son, who was seated on her left. She silently admonished herself for gawking at the duke and, most significantly, for being caught. What would he think about her staring at him?
“It’s nice to see the family in residence again,” Ben Collinsworth said. “How did you enjoy London, Miss Bainbridge?”
“It was noisy and quite dirty, although I did love exploring the many bookstores there. Have you ever been to London, Mr. Collinsworth?”
Heshook his head. “Not yet, but I hope to one day. Will you be going back in the spring?”
Emma nodded. “My mother’s determined I return for the Season.”
“You don’t seem happy about it. I thought all young women longed for a London Season?”
“Perhaps they do, but I'm not one of them. I'd be happy to stay in the country and breath the fresh, clean air.”
“I see. I enjoy the country as well, although I'd love to travel farther than Warrington. We haven't had a chance to talk much after Sunday services, and I was pleased to receive an invitation to some of the activities at the house party. Perhaps we can partner together for one of the lawn games?”
Emma nodded. Collinsworth was two years older and had always been most polite in her company. He was tall and solidly built, with dark hair and gentle brown eyes, but seemed relatively young compared to the duke.
Stop comparing every man to Richmond!
After the final dessert course had been served, Courtney rose from the table, signaling the ladies to adjourn to the parlor, where Emma and Charlotte took a seat on the sofa while Courtney poured the tea.
“Miss Bainbridge, I do hope you’ll play for us once the gentlemen join us,” Courtney said, handing her a cup.
“Me? Oh, I—” Emma stammered.
“Of course, she’d be delighted,” Lavinia said, giving her no polite way to decline. Her mother never missed a chance to showcase Emma's talents, although the pianoforte wasn't her best skill by far. If only her mother appreciated her keen mind more than whether she played well, Emma would be a lot happier. Unfortunately, that was never going to happen. To be labeled a bluestocking was scandalous in her mother's eyes and something to be avoided at all costs.
As much as she tried to quiet them, the butterflies in her belly roared back to life, and Emma swallowed hard. The last thing she wanted was to be the center of attention, especially with Richmond in attendance, but there was no way to back out now. Her mother had made sure of that.
It wasn’t long before the gentlemen walked into the parlor.
“Gentlemen, I’m pleased to say that Miss Bainbridge has agreed to play for us this evening,” Courtney said.
“Allow me to turn the pages,” Richmond said, walking toward her.
Emma’s eyes widened in near panic. “That’s very kind of you, Your Grace, but Lady Charlotte has already agreed to assist me.” She looked at Charlotte, pleading with her eyes for her friend to help her.
Charlotte’s eyes widened a little as she understood. She rose with Emma and walked to the pianoforte.
“Thank you,” Emma whispered as she sat down. “I don’t think I could play with the duke standing over me.”
"I understand. He can be quite intimidating at times.”
She managed to play reasonably well while Charlotte sang a few songs. When she finished playing, Emma was relieved that while Richmond applauded her performance, he didn’t seek her out.
One evening down.
A fortnight to go.
